10 simple tips to help you save time and money when washing and drying your clothes
As the colder months roll in and energy prices rise, it’s more important than ever to make your household appliances work smarter, not harder. A few simple tweaks to your laundry routine can cut down on costs, save time and reduce your environmental impact all without compromising on cleanliness or comfort.
Below, we’ll take you through some easy ways to get the most out of your washing machine and tumble dryer, plus a few eco-friendly swaps to make your laundry routine more sustainable.
How to save energy while using your washing machine
Your washing machine is one of the biggest energy users in your home, but these small changes can make a big difference:
1. Wash your clothes at a lower temperature
Washing at 30°C uses up to 40% less energy than higher temperatures and it’s more than enough for everyday loads. Save those hot cycles for items like towels or bedding that need a deeper clean.
2. Wash at a shorter cycle
For lightly soiled clothes, a shorter cycle will do the trick. It not only saves electricity but also helps your clothes last longer by reducing wear and tear.
3. Pre-soak and pre-treat heavily soiled clothing
If your garments are extra dirty, they’ll require extra care. There’s nothing worse than pulling out your clothes, noticing a stain didn’t come out and having to wash them twice. Try using an eco-friendly stain remover or a homemade mix of baking soda and vinegar.
4. Wash full loads but be careful not to overfill!
Running your machine half-full wastes energy and water. Aim to fill it up but leave enough room for clothes to move freely about a hand’s width at the top of the drum.
5. Try ecoegg Laundry Detergent Egg
Switch from detergent bottles to eco-friendly laundry solutions like the Ecoegg Laundry Detergent Egg. We’re refillable, gentle on fabrics and free from harsh chemicals. Great for your clothes, wallet and the planet.
How to save energy while using your tumble dryer
Tumble dryers can be real energy guzzlers, so a few mindful habits go a long way. Here are some simple tips to help you save.
1. Keep the filters clear
After every load, clear the lint filter. A clogged filter reduces efficiency and makes your dryer work harder, which uses more energy and can shorten its lifespan.
2. Dry similar fabrics together
Grouping similar fabrics helps them dry evenly and faster, for instance, avoid drying towels and t-shirts in the same cycle.
3. Don’t start with soaking wet washing
Give your clothes an extra spin in the washing machine first. The drier they are going in, the less time (and energy) they’ll need in the tumble dryer.
4. Take care not to underfill or overfill
Too few items waste heat, while overfilling prevents proper airflow, making drying less efficient. Find the sweet spot for optimal performance.
5. Try ecoegg Dryer Balls
Pop in a pair of Ecoegg Dryer Balls or wool dryer balls to help separate your laundry, reduce drying time and naturally soften fabrics. No need for chemical-laden softeners.
Bonus eco-friendly swaps to help you save this winter
Beyond your washing machine and dryer, a few sustainable swaps can make your laundry room even greener:
Switch to eco sponges and cleaning cloths
Replace plastic-based sponges with compostable loofah sponges or bamboo cleaning cloths. They’re durable, plastic-free, and biodegradable. We love using Seep sponges, they’re compostable and affordable, with a year's worth of sponges currently being priced at £26. They’re perfect for general house cleaning or cleaning your white goods and appliances.
Invest in a heated clothes airer
A heated clothes airer is another worthwhile investment. While some models can be pricey there are a lot of budget options available. According to The Guardian, a heated clothes airer can run for as little as 8p an hour. To find the best option for you, read this blog from The Guardian.
Keep on top of maintenance
It’s not just running costs you must worry about but repair costs as well. A well-maintained machine will run better and last longer. We’d recommend giving your machine a deep clean once a month. If you haven’t tried them already, our Detox Tablets are the perfect companions for your washing machine, keeping pipes and hard to reach areas clean.
For your tumble dryer, you can create a vinegar/water solution to give the inside a wipe down. Don’t forget to remove all the lint from the lint tray!
With just a few mindful changes, your laundry routine can become cleaner, greener and more cost-effective. From washing at lower temperatures to switching to eco-friendly products, these simple habits can make a big difference for your home, your wallet and the planet.